From Traditional to Transitional

A kitchen makeover

By Hanna Cilli

The homeowner of this dramatic kitchen makeover in Greenwood Village knew exactly what she wanted: a warm and inviting haven for her high school-aged children and their friends to gather and feel at home.

The original space was anything but—a weird layout, a clunky island, and drab, distressed cherry finishes that spoke of an outdated version of traditional design.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

After gutting and redesigning the entire space, the result is a much more appealing, efficient, and transitional look—bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary—without feeling out of place with the rest of the home’s sophisticated, traditional interiors.

Warm, dark walnut sets the scene, topped off with streamlined stainless-steel accents. The granite countertop was handpicked by the owner—a detail that flows seamlessly with the rest of the kitchen’s finishes.

The eating area was expanded, a juice bar was installed out of the butler’s pantry, and the space was opened up so that kitchen-goers can enjoy the adjacent family room, pool table, and sitting areas.

And, as if to brace itself for more foot traffic, the nearby laundry and mudroom received an overhaul, as well—adding an extra meaning to the word “transitional.” The wall with the window was extended two feet beyond the original layout, and a sleek, useful bench with hooks and drawers was built in, offering shelter for boots, backpacks, and scarves.

From beginning to end, this kitchen renovation not only welcomes subtle contemporary flavors and sleek up-to-date appliances—it enthusiastically greets its destiny as the hangout hub for family and friends, before and after they leave the nest.